Fresh details have emerged on the death of American chess grandmaster and popular online streamer, Daniel Naroditsky, with a toxicology report ruling that the 29-year-old died from heart-related complications and not from a drug overdose or suicide.
Naijaonpoint reports that Naroditsky was found dead at his residence in Charlotte, North Carolina, in October 2025, sparking widespread speculation within the global chess community and beyond.
At the time, police said the circumstances surrounding his death were being investigated as a possible overdose or suicide.
However, a report released by the North Carolina Medical Examiner’s Office and obtained by AFP on Friday said Naroditsky died from “probable cardiac arrhythmia” linked to an inflammatory disease that affected multiple organs.
According to the report, toxicology tests revealed the presence of methamphetamine, amphetamine and kratom, a plant-based supplement, in his system.
The substances were listed as contributing factors but were found at “levels considered non-toxic/non-lethal.”
The medical examiner ruled out both intentional and accidental overdose, stressing that there was no sign of illicit drug use or physical harm.
“There is no evidence for intentional or unintentional overdose on illicit, prescription, and/or over-the-counter substances,” the report stated.
It also noted that “no suspected illicit substances or paraphernalia were present” when Naroditsky was discovered by friends, while a postmortem examination showed “no evidence of injury.”
The report revealed that friends had noticed unusual behaviour days before Naroditsky’s death, including what was described as “concerning altered mental status while streaming online.”
Concerned about his well-being, friends reportedly visited his home and removed about 40 pills believed to be the stimulant Adderall.
Stress from Cheating Allegations
In the weeks leading up to his death, Naroditsky had been under intense pressure following cheating allegations made by former world chess champion Vladimir Kramnik.
Although Naroditsky denied the claims and no evidence was produced to substantiate them, the examiner’s report noted that the controversy caused him significant emotional stress.
Reacting to his passing, the International Chess Federation described Naroditsky as a transformative figure in modern chess.
“His influence extended far beyond the chessboard,” the federation said.
“He played a pivotal role in popularising chess content online, bridging the gap between professional and amateur chess.”
It added, “There are not many people in the world who manage to achieve so much before turning 30.”
Naroditsky held the prestigious grandmaster title, the highest rank in chess outside of being crowned world champion, and was widely admired for his instructional content, analytical depth and ability to connect with a new generation of players.